Ind vs Zim: Back to where it all began, Pandey aims to establish himself

Harare: It all started in Zimbabwe for Manish Pandey and the stylish batsman is back in the African nation with an aim to establish himself in India's limited overs set up during the ODI and T20 series starting on Saturday.

Pandey is set to play the first ODI on Saturday at the Harare Sports Club, a venue where he made his India debut in July last year.

After making 71 in his debut innings, he went on to play three ODIs in Australia including the one at Sydney where he scored a match-winning 104 to guide India to their sole win of the five-match series. Ahead of the three-match ODI series here, Pandey recalled the time last year when he realised his dream.

“This is again going to be a fresh start. We were there last year around the same time and I made my debut in Zimbabwe. It is good to go back there and share those memories, score some runs for India and do my duty," he said in an interview.

Asked about the important knocks he has played in his fledgling career, Pandey said, "It was a crucial innings (against Zimbabwe in his debut) for me and the team. I got the opportunity and I did justice to that. It was a good start and the right booster for me.”

"Some time has passed since that game in Australia (Sydney in January), but the memories and images of that game will stay with me. It is always good to have some confidence behind you."

Despite the Sydney hundred, Pandey is yet to cement his place in the team. He wants to stake a claim for a permanent place by winning more games for India.

"My goal is to keep performing and make sure that I fit into that Indian XI and become a permanent member of the squad. My goal for the next couple of years is to be a part of the Indian team and to win games for India. I am working hard towards that and I want to achieve that."

Pandey is also someone who is an asset on the field. He said he pays as much attention to fielding as he does to his batting.

"I spend as much time on fielding as I spend on my batting. Fielding is a very important part of the game. Some great catches and run-outs definitely change the momentum of the game. I make sure I give enough time to my fielding which helps in my resume as I am a (specialist) batsman," added Pandey.